Habits Quote by John E. Sarno
““What one must then do is develop the habit of “thinking psychological” instead of physical. In other words, I suggest to patients that when they find themselves being aware of the pain, they must consciously and forcefully shift their attention to something psychological, like something they are worried about, a chronic family or financial problem, a recurrent source of irritation, anything in the psychological realm, for that sends a message to the brain that they’re no longer deceived by the pain. When that message reaches the depths of the mind, the subconscious, the pain ceases. That””
About This Quote
Source Book: Healing Back Pain: The Mind-Body Connection, John E. Sarno, 1991
Pain can be reduced by redirecting attention from physical sensations to psychological concerns, sending a brain signal that diminishes the pain experience.
In simple terms: Shift focus from body to mind to ease pain.
Key Takeaway
Use mental distraction to manage chronic pain.
Themes
mind-body
pain management
attention
psychology
self‑care
Mood
reflective
empowering
Type
advice
therapeutic
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- self‑monitoring
- stressful work
- family conflict
- financial worries
Key Concepts
cognitive distraction
neuroplasticity
psychosomatic theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What psychological issue could you focus on when pain arises?
- How does attention shift change brain perception of pain?
A Different Perspective
May not work for acute injuries or when psychological factors are minimal.
